Winter in Ohio can be beautiful—but when snow, ice, and slush enter the picture, driving can feel a little more challenging for all of us. As we reflect on Older Driver Safety Awareness Week (December 1–5, 2025), it’s a great time to talk about how winter driving affects safety, especially for older drivers, and to share practical tips that help everyone stay confident and prepared behind the wheel.
Winter Driving: The Reality on Ohio Roads
The Ohio State Highway Patrol reminds drivers every year that winter weather brings unique hazards. During the winter of 2023–24, Ohio experienced 8,104 crashes on snow-, ice-, or slush-covered roads. The good news? That number was 21% lower than the previous year, showing that awareness and safer driving habits can make a real difference.
Still, winter driving demands respect. Those crashes resulted in 15 fatalities, and unsafe speed was a factor in 21% of incidents. Slippery roads reduce traction, increase stopping distances, and leave less room for error—making patience and preparation essential.
Simple Steps That Make a Big Difference
No matter your age, winter driving success comes down to slowing down, staying alert, and planning ahead. The Ohio State Highway Patrol recommends:
- Allow extra time to get where you’re going—rushing increases risk.
- Maintain a safe following distance, giving yourself plenty of room to stop.
- Watch bridges and overpasses closely, as they freeze faster than regular roads.
- Take your time with every maneuver.
Driving slowly is especially important in winter. Accelerating, turning, and braking all take longer on snow-covered roads. By easing up on the gas and making smooth, gradual movements, you give yourself the time you need to react safely.
Prepare Your Vehicle Before Winter Hits
Winter safety starts before you even turn the key. All motorists are encouraged to prepare their vehicles by checking:
- Battery and cooling system
- Tires (including tread depth and pressure)
- Windshield wipers and defrosters—front and rear
- Washer fluid, topped off and ready
If defrosters or wipers aren’t working properly, repairing or replacing them can dramatically improve visibility during snow or freezing rain. It’s also a smart idea to carry a winter car kit in case of a breakdown. Items like a blanket, flashlight, phone charger, and ice scraper can make a stressful situation much more manageable.
And remember—if you ever find yourself stranded and need help, you can safely call #677 to connect with the nearest Ohio State Highway Patrol post.
Why Older Driver Safety Matters
As Americans live longer, more people are enjoying active, mobile lifestyles well into their later years. Driving plays a vital role in maintaining independence, staying socially connected, and accessing essential services.
In Ohio:
- In 2024, 19% of the population was 65 and older, yet this group accounts for 24% of all traffic fatalities.
- According to ODOT crash data, people over 65 are more than twice as likely to be killed in a crash as younger occupants.
- In 2024, the leading causes of crashes involving at-fault drivers aged 65 and older were: failure to yield, following too close, driving off the road, improper lane changes, and improper turns
- Notably, 83% of crashes caused by drivers over 65 occur during daytime hours—a reminder that risk isn’t limited to nighttime or poor visibility.
Confidence, Not Fear
The goal of Older Driver Safety Awareness Week isn’t to discourage driving—it’s to empower it. With the right information, honest self-awareness, and a few adjustments, older drivers can continue to drive safely and confidently, even in winter conditions.
Winter driving simply asks more of us: more patience, more preparation, and more caution. By slowing down, keeping vehicles well-maintained, and staying informed, Ohio’s drivers—young and old alike—can reduce crashes and protect what matters most.
As winter settles in, let’s carry the spirit of Older Driver Safety Awareness Week forward. Safe mobility supports independence, connection, and quality of life—and that’s something worth protecting all year long.
Still have questions?
Visit ODOT’s Frequently Asked Questions and Stay Fit to Drive resources to stay informed and confident on the road. Then join Lt. Curry from the Ohio State Highway Patrol at SourcePoint from 11:30 – 1:30 pm on January 13 for a timely discussion on winter driving.
This program aligns with goals from Delaware County’s Age-Friendly Action Plan. Learn more at https://mysourcepoint.org/age-friendly